There had been intense speculation that the show would be axed, possibly to be replaced by 'Ireland's Got Talent' fronted by Louis Walsh.

However this evening the state broadcaster put the rumours to bed by confirming it had re-commissioned the show for another run.

Despite not yet producing a winner with long-term chart success, the series remains a ratings winner for the RTE One.

Produced by Screentime ShinAwil, the fifth series of The Voice of Ireland will air in January 2016 in the 6.30pm Sunday evening slot.

The decision was made by RTÉ television following a tender process for programme ideas for the Sunday evening slot which was open to independent production companies.

The Voice of Ireland coaches Una Foden and Rachel Stevens

Commenting on the announcement, Adrian Lynch, Channel Controller for RTÉ One, said, “The Voice of Ireland has been a hugely popular show for RTE One and the fourth series continued to attract really strong audiences.

"While we considered some very strong proposals as part of the tender process, we believe The Voice of Ireland represents the best option for Sunday nights on RTÉ One in the New Year.

The Voice of Ireland judge Kian Egan

"We’re confident that it will continue to be appointment to view family entertainment. We look forward to working with Screentime ShinAwil on what we are sure will be another great series”.

The fourth series of The Voice of Ireland on RTÉ One regularly attracted over 500,000 viewers every Sunday evening. The most watched episode of the fourth series attracted a live television audience of 673,000.